For the first time Rice cycle in selfmate. Motivation is selfmate-typical, it reaches its top
in solution. Excellent construction, interesting and original mechanism worked out by a
master leaves strong artistical impression.

s#2 (11+8)

Karol Mlynka
1st-2nd Prize ex aequo Martin-Zilina 1998-1999

1.Rxg5? A th. 2.Rgxd5 C
1...Kf4! a

1.Rg3? B zz,
1...g4 b 2.Rxd5 C
1...Kd4 2.Rg4+
1...Kxf5!

1.Rfxd5! C th. 2.Bxg5
1...Kf4 a 2.Rxg5 A
1...g4 b 2.Rg3 B

Highly esthetical complex of modern themes - changes of functions of both
white and black moves in three phases constituing original cycle. Combination
of Urania, Salazar and Vladimirov themes is shown with master touch.

s#2 (9+8)

Ladislav Salai jr.
3rd Prize Martin-Zilina 1998-1999

a) 1.h8Q! d3 2.Qd4 d2 3.Qxa7+ Bxa7#

b) 1.h8R! b5 2.Rh4 b4 3.Rxb4! B~#

c) 1.h8B! f4 2.Bd4 f3 3.f3 Bf2 Bxf2#

d) 1.h8S! f5 2.Sg6 f4 3.Sxf4 B~#

Splendidly executed twins
with AUW at h8, esthetically coloured by other three corners - wK, bK and mating piece.
The hero is in the unit of bp, not only making 8 moves, but also differentiating promotions.
The ode to black pawn in 4 acts has premiere. Excellently shown witty idea.